Popular Wedgetail soars in role as protector
The aircraft’s call-up in Europe showcases its clear value and capabilities.
Defence
Queensland is evolving into an AUKUS force
Pillar 2 of AUKUS identifies six ‘advanced capabilities’ which will be the focus of joint R&D and acquisition, and domains where Queensland has established leadership.
AUKUS drives strategic vision
The authors of the DSR have bravely undertaken the task of creating within 18 months not just a new strategy but a new framework for creating strategic policy.
A ready reserve of nation’s civilian fleet makes sense for the RAN
Recent revelations that China has launched multiple new civilian ferries that could be used as amphibious assault ships against Taiwan have caused consternation among some strategic analysts.
Building sustainable regional resilience
The security of Pacific nations is at risk in this new age of regional instability.
DSR: A case of ‘so much for so little’?
For a document that self-advertises as ‘the most substantial and ambitious approach to Defence … since the second World War’, the Defence Strategic Review is neither.
Defence communications satellite project gets a headstart
Rather than shortlisting two companies for a further round of studies in the acquisition of a communications satellite network, the Defence Department announced the winner was Lockheed Martin.
Engaging with media will clear air on ‘conventional wisdom’ thinking
Defence must defend, justify and explain the capabilities it says it needs, not leaving the conventional wisdom to stand as the truth.
Missiles need a sensor platform to engage targets with accuracy
The DSR has provided a broad outline of the ADF’s force structure but there are still some large gaps that need to be filled in. Namely how long-range missiles can be directed towards their targets, especially if they are moving.
DSR calls to strengthen northern bases
The DSR recommends urgent upgrades and development to Australia’s northern bases should begin immediately.
Defence is holding its partners to new standards and it will be all the better for it
Defence partners are doubling down on strategies to support the fresh impetus around frontline concerns.
Review delivers blow to RAAF’s integrated air defence system
The chances of Australia becoming a global hub for developing integrated air and missile defence systems has just received a major blow.
Building a nuclear workforce
Australia needs to establish the pipeline that delivers appropriate education and technical skills.
Sea, land and air focus on littoral manoeuvre capabilities
The Australian Army’s aspirations to acquire Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) may be the big losers in the fallout from the DSR, but its littoral manoeuvre capabilities are set to be enhanced.
Hope fades of progress on IFVs
The long-running LAND 400 Phase 3 project is one of the casualties of the DSR, which has reduced Army’s original aim of acquiring 450 tracked, heavily armoured vehicles down to a low 129.
Everyone wants more self-propelled howitzers, except Australia
One of the more startling recommendations in the DSR was to cancel additional 155mm Huntsman SPHs, with a second batch previously due to be ordered later this decade.
Wedgetail beats use-by date, joins US forces
The RAAF’s Boeing E-7A Wedgetail is the world’s preeminent Airborne Early Warning and Control platform, and will be adopted by all three AUKUS partners.
Queensland’s science industry ready to support review recommendations
The DSR and the federal government’s response allows us to re-set Australian Defence Force (ADF) structure and posture to meet a contemporary threat.
Boost to ADF’s precision strike power
In a process emphatically underscored by the recent DSR, Defence is acquiring new long-range precision strike capabilities.
Relocations as Apaches and Black Hawks on way
Plans to replace the Army’s European-designed battlefield helicopters with US Black Hawk and Apache programs will go ahead as planned.
Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/special-reports/defence/page/9